Singer Missy Elliott Diagnosed With Grave’s Disease

Singer Missy Elliott has been diagnosed with Grave’s Disease, an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid. She first had the condition in 2008.

Some of the effects of the disease are sweating, weight loss despite increased appetite, moodswings, diarrhea and frequent defecation.

Billboard reports:

“I was [driving and] trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn’t keep the brake down and almost crashed,” Elliott said. “I couldn’t write because my nervous system was so bad — I couldn’t even use a pen.”

Elliott has been going through radiation and exercising, which fortunately has improved her condition. “I’m 30 pounds lighter because I’ve been exercising.” Elliott continues. “My thyroid is functioning, so I haven’t had to take medication in about nine months. [But] you live with it for the rest of your life.”